Academic Catalog

Molecular Biotechnology (M.S.)

The Molecular Biotechnology Program is a career-oriented program specifically designed to educate and train technically-oriented people in both the theory and practice of modern biotechnology. The program’s main emphasis is on the application of these skills through integration of classroom, laboratory, and research experiences.

Admission Requirements

Admission to this program is contingent upon admission to the Graduate School. In addition, applicants are expected to have attained a level of scholarship in the baccalaureate program equal to a grade point average of 3.0 or better, including adequate preparation in biological sciences and supporting courses in chemistry, physics and mathematics. The general portion of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required. An introductory genetics course and a microbiology course passed with grades of ‘B’ or better are required, and completion of an introductory biochemistry course is strongly recommended. Deficiencies in course work must be completed before beginning the program. Students may enter in the Fall semester only.

Program Requirements

The M.S. in Molecular Biotechnology requires thirty-eight credits. Coursework will be completed in accordance with the schedule set by the Program Director, Dr. Weilong Hao. Students must consult with Dr. Hao, each semester prior to registration. All course work must be completed in accordance with the regulations of the Graduate School and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Candidacy: Applicants become degree candidates after completing twelve credit hours of course work and filing a Plan of Work which must be approved and signed by Dr. Hao.

Proposed Plan of Work

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
Fall SemesterCredits
BIO 7520 Nucleic Acid Laboratory 2
BIO 6540 Principles of Genetic Analysis 1
BIO 6510 Molecular Interactions 1
BIO 9996 Lab Rotation 2
BIO 6700 Responsible Conduct of Research 1
 Credits7
Winter Semester
BIO 7530 Proteins Laboratory 2
BIO 7560 Light Microscopy and Imaging 2
BIO 6530 Protein Structure and Dynamics 1
BIO 6520 Gene Expression Manipulation Systems 1
BIO 9996 Lab Rotation 2
BIO 7300 Communication of Research 2
 Credits10
Spring/Summer Semester
BIO 8996 Research in Molecular Biotechnology 2
 Credits2
Second Year
Fall Semester
Elective (6000 or 7000-level) 3
BIO 8995 Graduate Seminar in Biology 2
BIO 8996 Research in Molecular Biotechnology 3
 Credits8
Winter Semester
Elective (6000 or 7000-level) 3
BIO 8996 Research in Molecular Biotechnology 3
 Credits6
Spring/Summer Semester
BIO 8996 Research in Molecular Biotechnology 2
Master's Essay 3
 Credits5
 Total Credits38
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